Deer strikes commonly damage the front bumper, hood, fenders, and headlights, though hidden damage is also possible. If you notice fluid leaks, warning lights, or anything rubbing against the tires, avoid driving the vehicle until it has been assessed. Comprehensive auto insurance typically covers deer strike repairs.
Deer collisions are more common than most people think, especially at dawn and dusk when deer are most active. One moment you’re driving home; the next, there’s a deer in your headlights. It happens fast, and it can leave you shaken and unsure of what to do next.
Here’s a straightforward breakdown of what to do if you hit a deer and what kind of collision services you might need.
What to Do If You Hit a Deer
Stay calm and take these steps in order:
- Move your vehicle to a safe location if it’s drivable, turn on your hazard lights, and check yourself and any passengers for injuries first.
- Do not approach the deer. An injured deer can kick, thrash, and seriously hurt you, even if it looks still.
- Call local authorities if anyone is injured, your vehicle is blocking traffic, or your state requires a report (many do).
- Document the scene. Take photos of the damage, the road, and the deer if it’s safe to do so. This helps with your insurance claim.
What Damage & Collision Services to Expect
Deer strikes tend to hit the front of the vehicle hardest. Here’s what typically gets damaged:
Front Bumper Damage
The bumper usually takes the first hit. You might see cracking, deep dents, or full detachment from the vehicle. Modern bumpers also contain sensors and brackets behind the outer cover, so even if the outside looks okay, there could be hidden damage underneath. That means you’ll need a full inspection before knowing your complete collision services needs.
Hood and Fender Damage
When a deer rolls up onto the front of the car, the hood and fenders take a beating. Expect dents, creasing, and sometimes bent metal that affects how the hood opens and closes. Fenders can get pushed inward toward the tire, which creates a whole separate set of problems.
Headlight and Lighting Damage
Headlights are right in the impact zone. A deer strike can crack the housing, shatter the lens, or knock the headlight completely out of alignment. Taillights can also get clipped if the deer spins into the side or rear of your vehicle.
Hidden Damage You Might Not See Right Away
This is where a lot of people get surprised. The visible dents and broken plastic are obvious, but underneath there’s a radiator, cooling fans, wiring harnesses, and structural supports that can all take damage without showing it on the surface.
It’s common to drive away thinking the car is fine, only to notice the engine running hot a few days later because a bent radiator support is slowly restricting airflow. One of the overlooked answers to what to do if you hit a deer is to get the vehicle inspected at a professional collision services shop, even if it looks minor.
Is It Safe to Keep Driving?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Do not keep driving if you notice any of these warning signs:
- Fluid leaking under the vehicle (coolant, oil, or transmission fluid)
- Steam coming from under the hood
- Headlights or taillights not working
- Tires rubbing against the bumper or fender when you turn
- Warning lights on the dashboard
- Hood that won’t latch securely
If any of these are present, call for a tow. Driving a compromised vehicle can make the damage worse, and it’s a serious safety risk.
Does Insurance Cover Hitting a Deer?
Yes, in most cases if you have comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive is the part of your auto insurance that covers non-collision events like animal strikes, hail, and theft. Liability-only policies won’t cover collision services from deer damage.
Check your policy before assuming you’re covered. If you do have comprehensive insurance, you’ll pay your deductible and insurance handles the rest.
Could This Total Your Car?
Short answer: it’s possible, yes.
A totaled vehicle doesn’t mean it’s destroyed beyond recognition. It means the repair cost exceeds a certain percentage of the car’s value (usually around 70–80%, depending on the insurer). Severe deer strikes that involve structural damage, front-end mechanical damage, or multiple systems failing at once can push repair costs high enough to hit that threshold. Older vehicles with lower market values are especially at risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does hitting a deer count as an at-fault accident?
No. Hitting a deer is considered a comprehensive claim, not a collision claim. It won’t be counted as an at-fault accident and typically won’t raise your rates the same way a collision would.
Does comprehensive insurance cover hitting a deer?
Yes. Deer strikes fall under comprehensive coverage, which covers damage from animals, weather events, and other non-collision incidents.
Can hitting a deer cause frame damage?
It can. High-speed impacts or strikes where the deer goes under the vehicle can bend or crack frame components. A professional inspection and collision services are the only way to know for sure.
Do I need a police report after hitting a deer?
It depends on your state. Some require it, and your insurance company may ask for one. It’s generally a good idea to call and at least have the incident on record.
Get Your Vehicle Checked Out With Valley Collision
If you’ve hit a deer and aren’t sure what you’re dealing with, the team at Valley Collision can help. We offer free online estimates and thorough inspections to catch both visible and hidden damage, so you know exactly what you’re working with before making any decisions.
With six locations across Utah and I-CAR Gold Class certified technicians, Valley Collision provides collision services you can count on. Get a free estimate online or give us a call to get started.
